Significance and Use
3.1 The procedures outlined herein are grounded in the generally accepted body of knowledge and experience in the field of forensic tape examination and comparison.
3.2 With successful completion of this tape analysis training program, the trainee gains the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to perform, document, and evaluate forensic tape examinations and comparisons.
3.3 This training practice covers a variety of instrumental methods which can be used in the analysis of tape. Not all laboratories will have access to all of the instrumentation. It is expected that a tape analysis training program will include all the techniques that are found within a laboratory’s procedures for the forensic examination of tape.
3.3.1 Instrumental methods that provide organic and inorganic analysis capabilities are utilized in the laboratory training program. Examples include Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis gas chromatography (PGC), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), or X-ray diffraction (XRD).
Scope
1.1 This standard is intended as a practice for use by laboratory personnel responsible for training examiners to perform forensic examinations and comparisons on pressure sensitive tapes and adhesives. It contains a list of training objectives with recommended methods of instruction, reading assignments and structured exercises to provide practical experience for the trainee.
1.1.1 The trainees and training program shall meet or exceed the minimum training requirements set forth in Practice E2917.
1.1.2 Additional training could be required for a particular method or instrument referred to herein. The application of analytical techniques to tape analysis assumes the trainee is already competent in the use of each particular analytical technique or instrumental method.
1.1.3 Other sources of information on forensic tape examination not specifically mentioned in this document can be considered and added.
1.1.4 Additional tape analysis training beyond that which is listed here should be made available to the trainee. Such training could include off-site courses, internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners.
1.1.5 Continuing education and training is recommended. Additional training provides a forensic tape examiner with the opportunity to remain current in the field.
1.1.6 Tape samples are evaluated for physical matches of the cut or torn end pieces. This practice does not provide training requirements for physical match comparisons. Additional training is required to conduct this type of analysis.
1.2 This practice is in a modular format for easy adaptation to an individual laboratory’s training program. Recommendations as to lessons, practical exercises, progress monitoring, and trainee evaluations are included. Reading assignments are listed in each subsequent section of this practice; full citations are available in the References section.
1.3 A tape analysis training program provides a theoretical foundation and basic practical skills necessary to prepare a trainee to become a qualified forensic tape examiner. At the end of the tape analysis training program, the trainee is capable of forming opinions based upon sound scientific knowledge, appropriate examinations, and practical experience. The trainee also is able to independently work cases, write reports, testify in court, and peer review cases. Upon completion of the program by a trainee or at some regular interval (for example, once per accreditation cycle), the training program should be evaluated for its efficacy and relevance according to the guidance set forth in Practice E2917.
1.4 This practice does not address human factors (for example, cognitive bias). It is the responsibility of the user of this practice to address human factors during the initial or general training of a forensic scientist.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
